Tonight's match between the New Zealand Breakers and Sydney Kings will be distinctly special for one particular player.
New Zealand Breakers captain Mika Vukona. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Breakers captain Mika Vukona will make his 300th appearance in the team singlet tonight after playing in the Breakers very first NBL match back in 2003.
Vukona holds a number of records, including most games played (299), most consecutive games played (161) and most wins by a player (171).
He also tops the table for rebounds, over 2000, and is third for most points with 2239.
At 34, Vukona admits his body isn't what it used to be 13-years ago but said keeping himself fit is what motivates him to play.
"It's another challenge, it's something that excites me and it's just something I want to keep driving and say 'look I can prove myself' and the day that I can't and the body says no is when I'll give it away," Vukona said.
His former teammate turned coach at the Breakers said Vukona is an asset to the club.
"He's the guy that people look to on and off the floor.
"Off the floor he's made those improvements in terms of being able to have those uncomfortable conversations with teammates, honest and open conversations where he has the respect to be able to say those things and as a leader that's where you want to get to."
Vukona's current contract is set to run out next year but Henare believes the 34-year-old has more to give.
"He wants to continue playing, whether that's another two or three years I'm sure that'll be a realistic goal for him."
Tonight's game starts at 7.35pm at the North Shore Events Centre.
-RNZ
